Undergraduate Study > Certificates = available online

Build an academic program that you can complete at a pace that suits your lifestyle. The Center for Multidisciplinary Studies offers a number of certificate programs designed for students who want to gain expertise in a specific area of study or who wish to focus on one area of study at a time. Credits earned in these programs can be applied toward an Associates and/or Bachelors degree in Applied Arts and Science.

In each certificate program, up to four credits may be awarded through credit by experience/examination. Students must achieve a program GPA of at least 2.0 in order to be certified. CMS academic advisors can explain the details. Just give them a call, send an e-mail, or use our chat function during business hours.

To apply online for undergraduate study at RIT, please visit the office of Undergraduate Admissions' website at http://www.rit.edu/~960www/.

CMS specialized certificate programs:

• Computer Graphics
• E-Business
• Human Resource Development
• Management Development
• Organizational Change and Leadership
• Public Relations: Professional Writing
• Public Relations: Graphic Communication
• Quality Management
• Small Business Management
• Technical Communication: Basic
• Technical Communication: Advanced
• International Logistics and Transportation
• Computer Aided Drafting (CAD)
• Manufacturing Processes
• Robotics
• Fundamentals of Manufacturing Management

Todays graphic communicators rely on the computer for nearly every step of the creative process. The computer screen has replaced the sketch pad, the drawing table, the layout board and other tools traditionally used to develop graphic artwork. With the ever-widening use of the Internet and the World Wide Web, graphics not only are created on the computer but also are distributed and displayed to huge online audiences via the computer.

The courses within this program develop and enhance the computer graphic skills of students who find that, with increased access to desktop publishing tools and corporate emphasis on multitasking, their job responsibilities have broadened to include aspects of graphic design. The program will benefit technical communicators, administrators, public relations practitioners, educators, sales and marketing staff, and technical and business professionals who are called upon to design and produce effective brochures, advertising materials, presentations, proposals, flyers and other communications products. In addition, this program provides an excellent transition path for practicing graphic designers who need to upgrade their skills and move into the computer design arena.

Students develop skill in the use of a number of popular graphic design, illustration, presentation, photo manipulation and Internet software programs. They learn to combine typography, images and graphic elements into striking designs for both printed and online use and can develop a portfolio of professional-quality computer design work.

Required courses:

0688-271 Basic Computer Graphics Experimenting with basic principles and elements of design, students approach the computer as a tool for image making. The software application CorelDraw is used to design and develop all assignments and projects. No prior design training or computer background is necessary Credit 2

0688-371 Designing with Computers I An introduction to the computer as a design tool. Created for people just beginning to apply their design skills to a computer. In a hands-on lab over two quarters, the software application Freehand (vector based program) for illustrative techniques is introduced. Discussions on a variety of related topics, such as design concepts, other software, computer needs and misconceptions. Previous design experience is necessary. (0688-271 or equivalent). Credit 3

0688-372 Designing with Computers II In a hands-on lab the basic software application PageMaker (page-layout program) for layout techniques is introduced. Discussions on a variety of related topics, such as design concepts, other software, computer needs and misconceptions. Previous design experience is necessary. (0688-271 or equivalent) Credit 3

0688-373 Electronic Presentation Design This course introduces basic techniques for the creation of electronic presentations using computer software. Students will learn to design individual slides and transparencies and dynamic and effective assembled presentations. The software application Power Point is used. Credit 3

0688-381 Photo Imaging with Computers I An introduction to the computer as a photographic tool for people just beginning to apply their photography or photo-design skills to a computer. Adobe Photoshop is presented in a hands-on, two-quarter lab sequence. In the first quarter lab, students explore traditional photographic techniques using a computer with an electronic camera; second quarter, photographic manipulation using a computer with a flatbed scanner.(0688-271 or equivalent) Credit 3

0688-382 Photo Imaging with Computers II Adobe Photoshop is presented in a hands-on, two quarter lab sequence. In the second-quarter lab, students explore photographic manipulation using a computer with a flat-bed scanner. Credit 3

The e-business certificate is designed to create professionals who understand how to do business on the web. Graduates of the program will have a real grounding in the technologies, strategies, and tactics that make e-business initiatives successful.

Required courses:

0112-310 Introduction to E-Business Technologies This course gives students both a conceptual and hands-on understanding of the technology that supports today’s e-business revolution. Students will study the technical infrastructure that enables business online, and will also create e-business Web sites that will interact with “back end” databases to allow customer transactions. Students who complete this course will be able to approach technical decisions about e-business in an informed and effective manner. (Not for College of Business MIS majors) Credit 4

0105-445 Business to Business E-Commerce The focus of this course is on the effective integration and coordination of various operations in e-business to business transactions. The course includes organizational and financial issues related to successful e-business operation and it explores relationships among suppliers and buyers in these type of businesses. The course looks at the strategies and tactics that organizations can use to build and/or enhance their business to business relationships using electronic business tools and strategies. (0105-563 or equivalent) Credit 4

0112-510 Designing the E-Business Organization Students in this e-business course are required to propose and, to the extent possible, develop an e-business. The primary method for learning is the student’s own pursuit of the problem solutions. Strategic, financial and technical perspectives will be emphasized. Most of the student work for this course will involve research and analysis of electronic marketplaces and ultimately, the design and development of competitive e-businesses. (0112-310, 0105-440, 0105-445) Credit 4

0105-440 Internet Marketing The course examines the impact of the Internet on traditional marketing and the new form of marketing. It explores the impact of the Internet on marketing strategy and tactics. It explicitly considers using the Internet to increase the value delivered to customers and improve a firm’s competitiveness. (0105-363, junior status) Credit 3

In these days of rightsizing, reengineering, restructuring, virtual organizing and lifelong learning, knowing how to change and continually renew your organization, design new work patterns and structures, and enable your employees and colleagues to meet competitive challenges is more important than ever before.

Required courses:

Core Courses

0697-431 Understanding Corporate Culture An introduction to the concepts of organizational/corporate culture and the methods of analyzing it. Focuses on the development of skills required to assess corporate culture in terms of such constitute parts as ritual, symbol, structure, language and identity. Also included are a history of the study of corporate culture, an analysis of leadership styles and communication patterns in the workplace, an overview of strategies for managing corporate and organizational change and an orientation to leadership styles appropriate to the successful manipulation of cultural elements. Emphasis is both on individual and interactive learning processes. (0510-210 and either 0514-210 or 0515-210) Credit 4

0697-442 Learning Organization This interdisciplinary course combines management thought, control theory psychology and systems thinking. It focuses on theory and techniques for building and sustaining an efficient, creative organization that promotes problem solving and collaborative learning. Learning organization principles of systems thinking, personal mastery, mental models, shared vision, team learning. Provides an introduction to control theory psychology with applications for improved personal interaction and a non-coercive approach for lead managing. Includes analysis of the conditions limiting a organization’s capacity to learn and remediation of organizational “learning disabilities.” Credit 4

HR Development Courses

0619-480 Human Resources Administration This course presents hospitality and service management students with a complete repertoire of human resource management (HRM) issues. It addresses all the current HRM topics and is designed to enhance the student's ability to deal effectively with HRM topics. The laboratories attempt to develop conceptual thinking abilities. The course also focuses on HRM training techniques--an area of specific concern in the hospitality industry. By emphasizing various training techniques and practices, highly skilled graduates can immediately employ one of the hospitality industry's most valuable tools training to aid in the retention and management of human resources. The course makes extensive use of lectures and laboratory exercises. Credit 4

0626-390 Compensation and Benefits Administration An examination of the general structure of an organization and the rewards employees seek in exchange for the efforts and contributions they provide. Topics will include: rewards and motivation; government and market influence; job content analysis, description, and evaluation; developing pay structures and administering them; pay for performance; the range of benefit programs; choosing benefit programs for your organization and how to administer them; the relationship between compensation and benefits; employee expectations; costing of benefit programs. Credit 4

0626-XXX Elective Students can choose an elective from the 0626 discipline. Credit 4

0626-234 Interviewing Techniques A practical approach to interviewing techniques with emphasis on role plays and case studies. Coverage includes employment, disciplinary, counseling, and performance appraisal interviews. Credit 4

The management development certificate is earned by successfully completing a unique three-quarter, 12-credit course, The Management Process. The course focuses on practical applications of management theory, management problems, solutions and ideas, and personal development as an effective manager.

The Management Process sequence offers a comprehensive, integrated study of supervisory management. Topics covered include effective motivation, decision making, team building, conflict resolution, problem solving, time and stress management, communication techniques and strategies, planning, organizing, staffing, performance appraisal and leadership.

In this program students associate with others who have similar career aspirations, job responsibilities and challenging problems on the job. Through case studies, role plays, simulations and other instructional methods, students learn effective supervisory and management practices.

Required courses:

0681-200 Management Process 1 A comprehensive three-quarter course in effective supervision and management for supervisors and potential supervisors. Approximately 50 topics of current importance to supervisors are presented, as well as essential management principles, business communication and practical supervision techniques. Specific supervisory problems of course participants are discussed in informal sessions and through projects conducted outside the classroom. Instruction is usually guided by a team of management specialists. Lecture discussion, panel presentations, audiovisual presentation, simulation exercises and case studies. (Course extends over three consecutive quarters and should be taken in sequence.) A management certificate is awarded for successful completion of the course. Credit 4 per quarter (12 Total)

0681-201 Management Process II A comprehensive three-quarter course in effective supervision and management for supervisors and potential supervisors. Approximately 50 topics of current importance to supervisors are presented, as well as essential management principles, business communication and practical supervision techniques. Specific supervisory problems of course participants are discussed in informal sessions and through projects conducted outside the classroom. Instruction is usually guided by a team of management specialists. Lecture discussion, panel presentations, audiovisual presentation, simulation exercises and case studies. (Course extends over three consecutive quarters and should be taken in sequence). A management certificate is awarded for successful completion of the course. Credit 4, (12 credits total)

0681-202 Management Process III A comprehensive three-quarter course in effective supervision and management for supervisors and potential supervisors. Approximately 50 topics of current importance to supervisors are presented, as well as essential management principles, business communication and practical supervision techniques. Specific supervisory problems of course participants are discussed in informal sessions and through projects conducted outside the classroom. Instruction is usually guided by a team of management specialists. Lecture discussion, panel presentations, audiovisual presentation, simulation exercises and case studies. (Course extends over three consecutive quarters and should be taken in sequence). A management certificate is awarded for successful completion of the course. Credit 4 (12 credits total)

Profound and ongoing changes are taking place in organizations and individuals need to be flexible and proactive in response to these changes. The Organizational Change and Leadership certificate will help students understand corporate culture and develop skills necessary to manage organizational and individual change. Through the study of leadership, corporate culture, change management, organizational behavior, and teams, individuals will understand and obtain the skills necessary to proactively manage change.

This cerificate is a revision of the Certificate in Organizational Change. There will be no adverse affect on current students as they will be able to complete the Certificate in Organizational Change or transition into a new program if they choose. There will be no impact on faculty or resources.

Required courses:

0697-430 Survey of Organizational Change This course will facilitate a student’s understanding of factors that impact and influence behavior in contemporary organizations. In addition, students will develop skills that can be used to effectively function in the workplace. The course focuses on individual behavior, teams, motivation, decision-making, and creativity. Leadership, power, and politics in organizations are also addressed. Other topics include culture and change including the need for continuous learning and attention to the learning organization, ethics and values, organizational structure and conflict. The importance of effective communication is stressed throughout the course. Credit 4

0697-432 Managing Organizational Change At a time when America is learning that change-and not stability-is at the heart of business and organizational vitality, this course offers students insight into theories of organizational dynamics and change as well as an introduction to skills for managing change and negotiating. The strategies covered include, but are not limited to, community building, managing corporate and individual change, and identifying resistance conflict. Credit 4

0697-431 Understanding Corporate Culture An introduction to the concepts of organizational/corporate culture and the methods of analyzing it. Focuses on the development of skills required to assess corporate culture in terms of such constitute parts as ritual, symbol, structure, language and identity. Also included are a history of the study of corporate culture, an analysis of leadership styles and communication patterns in the workplace, an overview of strategies for managing corporate and organizational change and an orientation to leadership styles appropriate to the successful manipulation of cultural elements. Emphasis is both on individual and interactive learning processes. (0510-210 and either 0514-210 or 0515-210) Credit 4

0697-435 Global Forces & Trends Dealing with unpredictable futures is an on-going challenge for every leader, manager, and individual. Whether you are making personal or organizational decisions, your success depends on your ability to envision the future with a proactive, strategic approach. The ability to analyze, adjust to, and take advantage of emerging opportunities, trends, and forces, and to integrate and connect information patterns, determines the success or failure of your decisions. In this course, methodologies and approaches such as scenario-based strategy, visual thinking, mind-mapping, mental models, strategic thinking theory, and challenging prevailing ideas are introduced and used to examine the technical, social, economic and demographic trends and forces affecting people, organizations, and the choices they need to make. Credit 4

0697-434 Change & Leadership Project This course integrates the knowledge gained in the courses that make up the Organizational Change & Leadership Certificate and, therefore, cannot be taken until all the courses in the certificate have been completed. Students will be expected to identify an area within their studies of change and leadership that is of most interest to them. Once they have identified their area of interest, they will discuss this with the faculty member assigned to the course and begin the process of developing a proposal of the work to be accomplished. Well planned and fully thought-out proposals lead to the best projects and the ones that are most easily executed and completed. Upon acceptance of the proposal, the student will complete the project and write a paper reflecting their area of choice, integrating the knowledge gained from the courses in the certificate. Credit 4

0697-XXX Elective TBD Credit 4

Almost every organization employs individuals, either in house or by contract through public relations agencies, who can prepare press releases, brochures, newsletters, annual reports, point-of-purchase promotions and other persuasive, informative materials in a variety of media. The professional writing program provides specialized instruction in writing marketing materials, inbound and outbound publications, corporate-level communications and speeches and scripts.

Required courses:

Core Courses

0688-356 Strategic Communications This is a survey of strategic reactions to organization and communication problems. Case studies are used to analyze how communications research, planning, implementation, and evaluation are used to contribute to organizational goals and respond to needs and crises. Students study real cases where organizations have developed strategies for communication with consumers, employees, investors, government bodies, communities, and other publics. Credit 2

0681-264 Advertising Evaluations & Techniques Course presents basic approaches used in planning, preparation and evaluation of advertising and sales promotional materials. A number of projects involving writing/layout/production for print, broadcast and specialized media advertising are incorporated. Credit 4

0688-348 Managing the Project Principles of project management are studied and applied in cases and examples taken from the fields of technical and public relations communication. Major topics include planning, organizing, scheduling, budgeting, controlling, monitoring and reporting. Conflict resolution, team building and motivation are also covered. Use of project management software is introduced. Credit 2

Professional Writing Courses

0688-352 Writing for the Organization Introduction to public relations writing at the corporate level, including planning, writing and producing documents and publications intended to interpret the organization both internally and externally. Provides practice in writing a variety of information products including news and feature copy and annual report copy. Credit 2

0688-357 Media Relations Designed for writers whose positions frequently require preparation of public relations copy for media use. Emphasis is on developing clarity, precise use of language, and style in writing media letters and news releases.0688-220 or equivalent) Credit 2

0688-347 Promotional Writing Focuses on practical guidelines for preparing marketing materials including brochures, data sheets, trade press articles, press kits and advertising copy. (0504-225 or equivalent) Credit 2

0688-353 Scripting AV & Video Presentations Introduces writing and production techniques for audiovisual and video presentations. Scripting prepares students to write a specialized form of communication-dialogue that is to be spoken and heard. Instruction on enhancing the verbal message with visuals is presented. Dimensions of wording, voice characterization, sound, motion and color are explored. Includes story-boarding and an introduction to traditional and emerging production methods. (0688-220 or equivalent) Credit 2

0688-354 Speechwriting Introduces principles of speechwriting, a highly specialized form of professional communications. Speechwriting covers techniques for preparing a speech in the “voice” of another. Writing for the “ear” and adapting the message, wording, body language and tone to the speaker are included. Techniques for enhancing message retention are studied. (0688-220 or equivalent) Credit 4

0688-520 International Communication (can be used as a substitution) This course provides students with an overview of the techniques and problems encountered in communication that crosses cultural and natural boundaries. During this course students will examine strategies and methodologies for effective global communication and determine the best ways to display their messages despite barriers imposed by differences in language, culture and time zone. A variety of case studies will be examined. Credit 2

Almost every organization employs individuals, either in house or by contract through public relations agencies, who can prepare press releases, brochures, newsletters, annual reports, point-of-purchase promotions and other persuasive, informative materials in a variety of media. The graphic communication program (designed specifically to accommodate non-artists) focuses on understanding the components of the advertising process, the use of effective design principles in the preparation of layouts and the combining of creative and technical skills to achieve design success.

Required courses:

Core Courses

0688-356 Strategic Communications This is a survey of strategic reactions to organization and communication problems. Case studies are used to analyze how communications research, planning, implementation, and evaluation are used to contribute to organizational goals and respond to needs and crises. Students study real cases where organizations have developed strategies for communication with consumers, employees, investors, government bodies, communities, and other publics. Credit 2

0681-264 Advertising Evaluations & Techniques Course presents basic approaches used in planning, preparation and evaluation of advertising and sales promotional materials. A number of projects involving writing/layout/production for print, broadcast and specialized media advertising are incorporated. Credit 4

0688-348 Managing the Project Principles of project management are studied and applied in cases and examples taken from the fields of technical and public relations communication. Major topics include planning, organizing, scheduling, budgeting, controlling, monitoring and reporting. Conflict resolution, team building and motivation are also covered. Use of project management software is introduced. Credit 2

0688-355 Coordinating Publication Production A survey course for professional communicators. Provides an overview of major phases of print production and general understanding of the factors that must be considered in purchasing print production services: estimates, schedules, paper and binding options, colorization, print trade customs and illustrations; and guidelines for coordinating the stages of production. Credit 2

Graphic Communication Courses  (any three of the following courses)

0688-371 Designing with Computers I An introduction to the computer as a design tool. Created for people just beginning to apply their design skills to a computer. In a hands-on lab over two quarters, the software application Freehand (vector based program) for illustrative techniques is introduced. Discussions on a variety of related topics, such as design concepts, other software, computer needs and misconceptions. Previous design experience is necessary. (0688-271 or equivalent). Credit 3

0688-372 Designing with Computers II In a hands-on lab the basic software application PageMaker (page-layout program) for layout techniques is introduced. Discussions on a variety of related topics, such as design concepts, other software, computer needs and misconceptions. Previous design experience is necessary. (0688-271 or equivalent) Credit 3

0688-373 Electronic Presentation Design This course introduces basic techniques for the creation of electronic presentations using computer software. Students will learn to design individual slides and transparencies and dynamic and effective assembled presentations. The software application Power Point is used. Credit 3

0688-381 Photo Imaging with Computers I An introduction to the computer as a photographic tool for people just beginning to apply their photography or photo-design skills to a computer. Adobe Photoshop is presented in a hands-on, two-quarter lab sequence. In the first quarter lab, students explore traditional photographic techniques using a computer with an electronic camera; second quarter, photographic manipulation using a computer with a flatbed scanner. Credit 3

0688-382 Photo Imaging with Computers II Adobe Photoshop is presented in a hands-on, two quarter lab sequence. In the second-quarter lab, students explore photographic manipulation using a computer with a flat-bed scanner. Credit 3

0688-383 Introduction to Internet Design This course introduces basic techniques for the creation and design of electronic sites and pages for the Internet and the World Wide Web. Students learn the graphic techniques and tools to construct a well-designed and effective homepage and site. Credit 3

New certificate in Quality Management: replaces the current Basic Quality and Quality Implementation certificates. Students already enrolled in these certificate programs will be “grandfathered”; any courses taken toward the new certificate will count retroactively.

The objective is to equip students with state-of-the-art tools and skills necessary to function as quality professionals in a variety of settings. Students completing this program will be well-positioned to work as quality team leaders, trainers, facilitators, and managers in a variety of organizational levels and settings. The certificate is four courses, each four credits, and is offered totally online.

Required courses:

Core Courses

0684-310 Introduction to Quality An introduction to the fundamental concepts of total quality management. Includes an overview of the competitive environment, the cost of non-quality, and the history of quality; a systematic examination of the leading definitions of quality and models of quality management; and an exploration of the implication of quality management concepts for organizational structure and roles, decision making and interpersonal relations. Credits: 4

0684-340 Quality Data Analysis An introductory course in statistics and probability that provides students with techniques to analyze and interpret quality control data. Topics include problem solving techniques such as the fishbone and flowcharting, descriptive statistics (statistical tables and graphs, measures of central tendency and dispersion), a brief overview of the normal distribution, and one-way ANOVA. Prerequisites: 0684-310, Introduction to Quality. Credits: 4 Offered online only. Credit 4

0684-410 Introduction to Lean Six Sigma Six Sigma techniques, introduced to industry in the late 1980's, use data-driven decisions to reduce defects, drive down costs and increase efficiency. This methodology focuses on minimizing process variation, thereby enabling the process to operate more smoothly and efficiently. Lean is a process that focuses on eliminating waste and streamlining operations. Lean Six Sigma, a more recent technique, combines the two processes. Data-driven decisions are still present, but the emphasis on speed for the process improvement is key. Combining these two methods into Lean Six Sigma provides a powerful tool to make improvements in any process or business. In this course, students learn the history, context, and tools of Lean/Six Sigma through lectures and case studies, and begin to apply the process in a course project. Offered only online Credits: 4

either of the following courses

0684-420 Statistical Quality Tools An introductory course in Statistical Quality Control techniques used in determining operating quality levels and recognizing degrees of process control and capability in a service industry or a manufacturing process. Topics include tools for diagnosing sources of variation; construction and interpretation of charts for variables and attributes; process capability; and ANOVA. Students will also be given a short overview of design of experiments (DOE) concepts and Taguchi methods. Offered online only. Credits: 4

0684-430 Management for Quality Successful companies integrate quality techniques and concepts throughout their operations. This course addresses issues in developing and managing an effective organization, including defining a quality philosophy, delighting the customer, the role of strategic planning, enhancing employee involvement, and sustaining quality initiatives. Additional topics include understanding quality standards and systems, benchmarking, and vendor and supplier assurance. Prerequisites: 0684-310, Introduction to Quality; 0684-340, Quality Data Analysis. Offered online only. Credits: 4

The certificate program in small business management is designed for enterprising individuals who want to launch a new venture or improve an existing small business. It is especially appropriate for entrepreneurs, members of family-owned businesses and key employees in companies with sales under $2 million.

The three courses in the program are tightly integrated, to provide a solid foundation in managing, marketing and financing small businesses. The faculty include academically qualified entrepreneurs who have managed their own small companies. Courses may count as business electives in degree programs, may serve as foundation courses for the management diploma and may be taken out of sequence.

Required courses:

0681-221 New Venture Development Course presents factors to be considered by those interested in the ownership and management of small business enterprises. Includes who should be an entrepreneur, guidelines for starting a new business, basic legal consideration, and approaches for obtaining capital and credit. Credit 4

0681-222 Small Business Management The functions required to successfully manage and finance a small business are presented. A variety of topics include staffing a small business, purchasing and supplier relations, consumer credit policies, and the financial and administrative controls necessary to minimize business risk. Credit 4

0681-223 Small Business Marketing & Planning Presents various successful planning and marketing approaches (including market determination, distribution and pricing strategies). The regulatory environment facing small business is included along with techniques for planning growth. Credit 4

Technical communication is an essential, challenging and rewarding profession, one that can be practiced within an organization or outside, through independent contracting. As the technologies evolve, so does the need for skilled communicators. Industrial, business, scientific, medical and nonprofit sectors have recognized the importance of communication to their successes. The ability to present information effectively in forms such as manuals, brochures, data sheets, promotional materials, systems documentation, reports, trade and professional journals, Web sites and videos, among others is a highly valued asset in the work place today.

The sequence of courses is designed to be completed in three quarters of part-time study. It provides a strong, practical foundation in technical communication skills. The Basic Technical Communication certificate is a prerequisite for the Advanced Technical Communication certificate.

Required courses:

0688-333 Technical Writing & Editing Focuses on the writing skills required for preparing technical documents. Adapting material and language for audience and purpose and conventions of technical writing style are emphasized. Strategies for evaluating technical discourse are studied and applied. Prior to enrolling in this course, students must demonstrate command of standard written English prose. (For students in basic technical communication program. Others contact program chair) Credit 4

0688-363 Technical Document Design This course presents an overview of the principles and contemporary techniques involved in document design and provides the students with an opportunity to exercise them in the preparation of a technical manual. Topics include the basic principles of graphic design and visual communication, use of computer graphics and page layout programs, typography and its role in document design and reproduction and distribution methods. Students will plan, research, design, write, format, edit and produce a finished technical manual. Credit 4

**Also, choose one of the following:

0688-361 Research Techniques This course offers exposure to and experience with electronic and traditional resources for information generation. Student assignments simulate workplace fact-finding assignments and culminate in an extended feasibility project of the student’s choice. Students work in teams and use problem-solving strategies, assess project requirements, collect data, report periodically on their progress, and formally present their results. A variety of research methodologies are introduced, including interviewing skills, developing and using questionnaires, testing procedures, review and use of literature, and blueprint and specification reading. Credit 4

0688-362 Instructional Design Principles This course presents an overview of the process of designing instructional packages from need and task analysis through identifying goals and objectives, media selection, program development and validation testing. Credit 4

Technical communication is an essential, challenging and rewarding profession, one that can be practiced within an organization or outside, through independent contracting. As the technologies evolve, so does the need for skilled communicators. Industrial, business, scientific, medical and nonprofit sectors have recognized the importance of communication to their successes. The ability to present information effectively in forms such as manuals, brochures, data sheets, promotional materials, systems documentation, reports, trade and professional journals, web sites and videos, among others is a highly valued asset in the work place today.

The sequence of courses is designed to be completed in three quarters of study. This certificate is designed for those interested in further professional development and instruction in more specialized topics. The Basic Technical Communication certificate must be completed before obtaining the Advanced Technical Communication Certificate.

Required courses:

0688-544 Writing for the Sciences Course introduces students to the writing requirements for describing scientific and technological subject matter for presentation to general audiences. Students will learn to write and edit material for professional, in-house, trade and popular publications that cover developments in the scientific and technical areas. The editing of scientific writing is also introduced. Credit 4

0688-366 Managing Media Presentations An introduction to design principles and software applications for creating and organizing media presentations on technical topics. Includes principles of Web page design, the development of computer-based illustrations and electronic presentations. Covers the use and introduces HTML and other software applications. Project management skills are introduced. Credit 4

0688-367 Writing Software User Documentation An introduction to the creation of end-user documentation for software products. This course defines the audiences, content, structures, and language of software user manuals and identifies typical problems with them. Practice is provided in writing step-by-step procedures, defining system and software concepts, and describing end user needs. Other types of software documentation as well as usability testing and online information are introduced. Credit 4

Professionals in the logistics field need the tools and knowledge to successfully build international supply chains, finesse sourcing and material purchases in a global market, balance worldwide production schedules, deliver on customized just-in-time demands, and optimize real-time control of their inventory and assets.

Required courses:

0681-451 Introduction to Logistics & Transportation Overview of the transportation and logistics industry as a vital part of the nation’s social and economic structure. Introduces basic understanding of the functional areas of logistics management and their interrelationships. The purchase and use of transportation services as related to the firm’s logistical mission is emphasized. Credit 4

0681-525 Strategic Logistics Management Introduces the basic skills required to move materials in support of the logistics function internationally. Includes discussions of duties, customs regulations and the various instruments used to facilitate international trade. Credit 4

0681-526 Logistic Law & Economics Introduces the role of government in the transportation industry. The evolution of past and current regulatory and promotional policies is explored. The determination and utilization of freight rates are examined. Various methods to forecast and control transportation costs also are discussed. Credit 4

Certificate description coming soon.

Required courses:

0608-211 Engineering Graphics with CAD (AutoCAD) An introduction to engineering graphics as a means of communication in the fields of manufacturing and mechanical design. The course is laboratory oriented and provides the student with basic skills in print reading, spatial visualization, instrument drafting, freehand sketching, and computer-aided drafting. Prior knowledge of engineering drawing or CAD is not required. Credit 4

0617-262 Solid Modeling and Design (Solid Works) This course introduces students to the engineering design process and solid modeling. Students learn visualization skills, parametic solid modeling and creation of engineering drawings which meet industrial drafting standards. Design projects are used to reinforce concepts and provide practical design experience. Credit 4

0617-220 Manufacturing Process This course will focus on the understanding and application of basic manufacturing processes. Students will be challenged to discover and learn how typical industrial piece parts and assemblies are constructed. Topics include material properties, powder metal processes, bulk deformation processes, metal removal processes and sheet metal forming processes. Credit 4

0617-460 Computer Aided Design (Unigraphics) CAD is introduced as an integral part of the computer integrated manufacturing process. Basic concepts of CAD software and hardware, interactive graphics, CAD Applications, CAD Economics and the inter- relationship of CAD and CAM are discussed. The course work gives the student the skills needed to create 3D Solid Models using a Parametric 3D Solid Modeling application. Emphasis is placed on laboratory work such as creating Solid Models and Assemblies containing Solid Models with limited view creation and dimensioning. Credit 4

Certificate description coming soon.

Required courses:

0617-220 Manufacturing Process I This course will focus on the understanding and application of basic manufacturing processes. Students will be challenged to discover and learn how typical industrial piece parts and assemblies are constructed. Topics include material properties, powder metal processes, bulk deformation processes, metal removal processes and sheet metal forming processes. Credit 4

0617-420 Manufacturing Process II This is the second of two courses that teaches manufacturing processes The first covers basic traditional processes and this course goes on to cover what are commonly referred to as nontraditional manufacturing methods. Within this category are processes such as electrical discharge machining, water jet machining, photochemical machining, ultrasonic machining, lasers, plasma cutting, rapid prototyping, etc. This is a project based course; the student will individually, or in a team, investigate one of the processes in depth, and how it is applied to a specific part. Credit 4

0617-471 Computer Numerical Control An advanced course in Computer Numerical Control. Emphasis is placed on machine language and computer aided parts program generation, tool path verification and program editing. Students create three axis programs for CAD, generate models, then modem their instructions to CNC machine tools to actually cut the finished part from raw stock. CAD/CAM integration and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM)concepts are presented. (Pre-Requisite: 0617-220 or 460) Credit 4

Certificate description coming soon.

Required courses:

0610-230 Computing Tools for Engineering Technology The computer is one of the fundamental tools used by technologists. This course teaches a basic level of computer competency that is regarded by the faculty and industrial employers as essential for success. The course emphasizes a wide range of applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, making graphs, presentations, basic web page design and posting, and technical mathematical calculations. The course also covers computer management topics such as file management, anti-virus protection, and World Wide Web use as an educational resource and means to post information. Credit 4

0617-470 Controls for Manufacturing Automation This course deals with the principles and application of programmable logic controllers (PLC). Topics include PLC hardware, programming and application of PLCs in a computer integrated manufacturing (CIM) environment. Students will also be exposed to man-machine interface (MMI) and PLC networks. (Pre-Requisite: 0609-411) Credit 4

0617-485 Robots in Manufacturing This course deals with the technology and application of robots in a Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) environment. It will provide a thorough understanding of robotic hardware and software. The hardware aspects include robot configurations, drive mechanisms, power systems (hydraulic, pneumatic and servo actuators), end-effectors, sensors and control systems. The software aspect deals with the various methods of textual and lead through programming. Digital interfacing of robots with other CIM components such as programmable logic controllers, computer-controlled machines, conveyors, etc. will be introduced. Robotic cell design and the socio-economic impact of robotics will also be discussed. A strong laboratory hands-on training component is part of the course. (Pre-Requisite: 0617-410, 470) Credit 4

Certificate description coming soon.

Required courses:

0617-436 Engineering Economics A study of techniques required to make economic decisions. Topics covered in the course include cash flow analysis, present worth analysis, annual worth analysis, rate of return evaluations, benefit cost analysis, break even analysis, replacement analysis, bonds, the effect of tax on cash flows, and sensitivity analysis. Credit 4

0617-440 Production and Operations Management I This course in production and operations management focuses on operations terminology, operations strategy, design for manufacturing, project planning/control, value analysis and statistical quality control. (Pre-Requisite: 1016-319) Credit 4

0617-441 Production and Operations Management II This course is designed to provide the student with knowledge of the latest theories and practices of operations management employed by world class manufacturing organizations. Topics include TQM, MRP, JIT, lean manufacturing, six sigma, theory of constraints, work simplification and operations research. Credit 4